As the United Kingdom officially left the European Union on January 31, 2020, it was only the beginning of the Brexit process. The negotiations on the UK and EU Brexit agreement have been underway for quite some time, and the agreement has finally been reached on December 24, 2020. The UK and EU Brexit agreement, which contains over 1,200 pages, is a comprehensive document detailing the future relationship between the two entities.
The UK and EU Brexit agreement covers several essential areas, including trade, security, and fishing rights. There are significant changes to the trade relationship between the UK and the EU, as the UK is no longer part of the single market or customs union. As a result, both parties had to agree on new rules to govern trade between them.
Under the agreement, there will be no tariffs or quotas on goods traded between the UK and the EU. However, there will be customs checks and regulatory barriers, which will add extra time and costs to trade. The UK and EU have agreed on a level playing field, where both parties will maintain high standards on areas such as workers’ rights, environmental protection, and state aid.
The UK and EU Brexit agreement also addresses security cooperation, with the UK set to continue its membership of key security institutions such as Europol and Eurojust. Both parties have also agreed to maintain close cooperation on counter-terrorism, law enforcement, and data sharing.
Fishing rights have been a contentious issue throughout the Brexit negotiations, with the UK pushing to reclaim control over its waters. Under the agreement, the UK will gradually regain control over its fisheries over a five-and-a-half-year period. During this transition period, EU fishing boats will still be able to access UK waters, but their fishing quotas will be reduced.
The UK and EU Brexit agreement is a detailed document that covers several critical areas. It is a landmark agreement that will shape the relationship between the UK and the EU for years to come. The agreement is a testament to the hard work and compromise of both parties during the negotiations.
In conclusion, the UK and EU Brexit agreement is a significant milestone in the Brexit process. It provides clarity and certainty to businesses and individuals on the future relationship between the UK and the EU. However, its true impact will only be felt in the years to come. As the UK and the EU embark on a new era, it is crucial that they continue to work together to ensure a prosperous and mutually beneficial future.